Indian PM Modi Calls for Swift Resolution to Ukraine Conflict
Modi's Plea for Peace
On the opening day of the annual BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a plea for the conflict in Ukraine to be resolved swiftly and peacefully. This sentiment was communicated directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin at the start of the three-day event. Putin is hoping to position the BRICS alliance as a primary alternative to Western dominance.
Modi expressed his support for peaceful conflict resolution, stating, "We have been in constant touch over the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. We believe that disputes should only be resolved peacefully. We totally support efforts to quickly restore peace and stability." The Indian Prime Minister's comments come during a week where Russia is hosting numerous heads of state, demonstrating that the country is far from being isolated.
India's Commitment to Cooperation
Modi further emphasized India's readiness to cooperate in the future, stating, "All our efforts give priority to humanity. India is ready to provide all possible cooperation in the times to come."
Upon his arrival in Kazan, Modi highlighted the steady relations between India and Russia, despite the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This is his second visit to Russia in just three months. He stated, "My two visits to Russia in the last three months reflect our close coordination and deep friendship. Our Annual Summit in Moscow in July has strengthened our cooperation in every field."
Positive Response from Putin
Putin responded positively to Modi's comments, describing the relations between Russia and India as a "particularly privileged strategic partnership" that continues to actively develop.
Other BRICS Partners Likely to Echo Call for Peace
Other BRICS partners are expected to echo Modi's call for peace and de-escalation in Ukraine. Approximately two dozen global leaders are present in the Russian city for the summit, including Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
BRICS Summit in Kazan
Russian state sources have praised the country's hosting of the summit. The event is seen as a clear sign that the global balance of power is shifting, according to Alicia Garcia-Herrero, a senior research fellow at the Bruegel think tank.
A key item on the agenda will be the development of a BRICS-led payment system to rival the SWIFT international payment system, a concept that Putin has discussed at length.
Other Topics of Discussion
Other topics likely to be discussed at the summit include the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, given Israel's recent vow to retaliate against Iran for a ballistic missile attack on October 1st, and the increasing bombardment of Lebanon by Israeli jets.
Bottom Line
The BRICS summit in Kazan is a significant event, with leaders from around the world gathering to discuss key global issues. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for a swift and peaceful resolution to the Ukraine conflict is a significant development. It will be interesting to see how this plea is received by other global leaders and what actions will be taken in response. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.